THE prospect of a British Steel rescue deal "remains strong", according to an MP.

Redcar MP Anna Turley says she feels "positive" about the prospect for a successful sale to Ataer.

In a statement she said: "A large team from the company have been in the UK looking in detail at the operational, regulatory and financial situation at British Steel as part of the due diligence process. They have also had initial meetings with all the trade unions which I understand were positive, and they will be consulting on their plans with the unions and the work force in the coming weeks.

"Officials are working at pace and there are no delays to the original timeframe of 6 to 8 weeks. It is business as usual at British Steel and relations with the supply chain and customers remain strong, but to maintain that confidence the priority is getting a sale across the line as soon as possible.

"Once again, tribute really must be paid to the workers, supply chain businesses and customers for their hard work and loyalty to British Steel during the uncertainty."

British Steel collapsed into liquidation in May – putting hundreds of jobs at risk.